Each poppy costs £25 to purchase and funds are being donated to six charities including The Royal British Legion, Combat Stress, Coming Home and Help for Heroes.

A spokeswoman for the Tower of London said their website and phones have been inundated with requests to buy the poppies.

Each poppy costs £25 to purchase and funds are being donated to six charities including The Royal British Legion, Combat Stress, Coming Home and Help for Heroes.

Launching the commemoration, General the Lord Dannatt, Constable of the Tower of London, said: “For this important anniversary year, we wanted the Tower of London’s commemorations to serve as a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives during the First World War, whilst encouraging others to reflect on our past.

"The First World War was a pivotal moment in our history, claiming the lives of over 16 million people across the globe; its consequences have shaped our modern society.

"We hope that people across Britain, Europe and the rest of the world will join us by being a part of this unique moment which we feel reflects the magnitude of this centenary year.”